PART of Worcester's Labour Club which was destroyed by fire two years ago may be rebuilt if city councillors give the go-ahead.

New Street Labour Club was hit by fire in July 1999, and had to be partly demolished after the blaze.

The building had not been used as a Labour Club for a number of years before the incident, but has lain derelict since.

Hereford and Worcester Fire Brigade launched an arson investigation after the fire.

Now, the owners of the building have submitted plans to redevelop the site as a new private members' club.

The frontage of the building, which is in the city conservation area, would be kept, but the rest would be completely demolished and a new building would be constructed.

Two different options also suggest homes at the rear of the site, or offices and homes.

City council officers prefer the second option of a new office building as well as homes, but only cautiously welcome the plans as many people living nearby object to a new club being built.

They are concerned about noise from the site and being overlooked by the new houses.

A decision is due to be made on the development at a planning meeting at the Guildhall tomorrow.